Related Rates: Trig Homework Solving x when Theta Increases

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a related rates problem involving trigonometric functions, specifically examining how the variable x changes as the angle theta increases at a constant rate. The original poster presents a scenario where theta increases at 3 radians per minute, and they seek to determine the rate of change of x when x equals 3 units.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate x and theta using the equation 5sin(theta) = x and differentiates it to find dx/dt. Some participants question the setup of the triangle and the derivation of cos(theta), while others suggest clarifying the definitions of the variables involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and seeking clarification on the relationships between the variables. There is an exploration of the assumptions made regarding the triangle and the trigonometric relationships, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach or interpretation.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the importance of clearly defining all variables and their rates of change before proceeding with calculations. There is also mention of multiple choice answers provided by the original poster, which may influence the direction of the discussion.

kLPantera
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Homework Statement



If theta increases at a constant rate of 3 radians per minute, at what rate is x increasing in units per measure at the instant when x equals 3 units?

The Attempt at a Solution



I drew the triangle and I came to the conclusion that I needed to use 5sin(theta)=x

Then I did the derivative and it comes out to 5cos(theta)d(theta)/dt=dx/dt

Here is where I am a little confused, I get cos(theta) = (5/2)√(3)/5 based off of the 30 60 90 triangle.

Am I doing this right? After I do the calculations, I don't get the right answer because no where are you supposed to have a sqrt in the answer.
 
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kLPantera said:

Homework Statement



If theta increases at a constant rate of 3 radians per minute, at what rate is x increasing in units per measure at the instant when x equals 3 units?

The Attempt at a Solution



I drew the triangle and I came to the conclusion that I needed to use 5sin(theta)=x

Then I did the derivative and it comes out to 5cos(theta)d(theta)/dt=dx/dt

Here is where I am a little confused, I get cos(theta) = (5/2)√(3)/5 based off of the 30 60 90 triangle.

Am I doing this right? After I do the calculations, I don't get the right answer because no where are you supposed to have a sqrt in the answer.
Please write the complete problem as it was given to you.

I may be able to guess what you're supposed to do, but if my guess is wrong, that won't really help you.
 
I typed the problem word for word, I'll include the multiple choice answers in this post:

a) 3
b) 15/4
c)4
d)9
e)12
 
This is a related rates problem right? What is dθ/dt? What is dx/dt? Write down all your variables BEFORE you start trying to manipulate things.
 
kLPantera said:
I typed the problem word for word, I'll include the multiple choice answers in this post:

a) 3
b) 15/4
c)4
d)9
e)12
If you typed it word for word, as follows, copied & pasted directly from your Original Post, & shown below:
"If theta increases at a constant rate of 3 radians per minute, at what rate is x increasing in units per measure at the instant when x equals 3 units?"​
then, where does the triangle come from, about which you stated:
"I drew the triangle and I came to the conclusion that I needed to use 5sin(theta)=x"​
??
 

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